Help a Newbie out (sorry for being long winded)

[Jigsisme]

Hello to all, Just joined and have tons of questions as usual. It all started with a simple modification to a rod last week and now I want to try and make my own molds and pour my own plastics! I've already done some research here and it looks fairly simple, lots of trial and error will tell. My questions for now are: I already started drawing 4 different designs for jig trailers, worms and other nitbits, once I make the prototypes out of clay, whats the easiest way to make the mold (cost being a fator)or should , I want to good quality product so should I even consider the Plaster of Paris as the mold, or should I just send them to Del (or other) to have a custom mold made? Next, When molds are complete, what do you recommend as the simplest plastic for pouring Zoom quality baits, i.e. durability, appearance? Have looked at both LureCraft and Del-Mart...Have read here that the plastic from Del, I could just purchase the plastic alone and just add color, is that correct? I know that for now I want basic colors, Black, Black/Blue, Watermelon, Smoke and with flakes. Do I need anything else to achieve these colors and what about sents/salts? Thanks for all the help, am really excited to getting started!

[woodsac]

Welcome to TU !

I've already done some research here and it looks fairly simple

That's the best advice I can give, read, read, read! There is tons of info in the archives.

I want to good quality product so should I even consider the Plaster of Paris as the mold, or should I just send them to Del

Definately try and make your own molds first. If nothing else, for the simple fact that once you invest in the aluminum molds, there's no going back. What if you pour you new trailers in the aluminum, and you're not happy with the results? Once you have a finished product, then consider sending them in for an aluminum upgrade

You'll need to buy enough plastic to get you started. I recommend a gallon to start. You can buy Calhoun from Del (great plastic)! If you want to try MF there are 2 places to buy:

http://www.fishingworld.com/M-F-Manufacturing/

http://www.tacklewarehouse.com/catpage-LURECUSTOM.html

Del is also offering some basic colors and flake now too. You could place a beginner order from one place if you went through him.

One ounce of color is enough to color 1 gallon of plastic. Just buy the basic colors you think you'll need. Start by adding 2 drops per ounce of plastic. Then add more until you reach the desired color. Check out the 'How To' section for some more tips.

[D.J.]

Welcome aboard My suggestion would be to use clay to make your prototype and then use Durhams Water Putty to make the molds. If you like the bait after all of this, then I would get Del-Mart to machine one out of aluminum. They are by far the best molds. I use Lure Craft 536 plastic but will be switching to Calhoun's after my supply runs out. Everybody seems to think it is by far the best out there. Colors are a personal preference as are scents. You can't go wrong with crawdad and anise scents in my opinion. I use Lure Craft scents. Add some glitter of choice and your off and running. Hope this helps. Good Luck :!: